April is Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Awareness Month. The American College of Gastroenterology states that around 10% to 15% of adults living in the United States are living with IBS.

Our team at AFC Urgent Care Sevierville wants you to know the signs that might suggest you are experiencing IBS, as well as what foods can help soothe your symptoms and help you regain control of your quality of life.

What Is IBS?

Irritable bowel syndrome, also known as IBS, is a common gastrointestinal condition that affects your large intestine. There are various symptoms associated with IBS, including abdominal pain, cramping, gas, bloating, diarrhea and/or constipation.

There are some foods that can actually make your IBS symptoms worse, which is why it is important to note how you feel after eating so that you can help to eliminate IBS flare-ups caused by the foods you eat.

Foods That Trigger IBS

• Dairy products like milk and cheese
• Certain vegetables that increase gas, such as cauliflower, broccoli, cabbage, Brussels sprouts and beans
• Fatty or fried foods
• Alcohol, caffeine or soda

What Could Be Causing Your IBS?

While the main cause of IBS is unknown, there are a number of reasons why IBS can occur. For instance, stress and anxiety have been known to bring about IBS. Therefore, by helping to better manage your stress and anxiety, you can also help to reduce your IBS flare-ups.

Another reason why IBS might occur is because of the lack of communication between the brain and the gastrointestinal tract, which can cause a disruption in bodily functions. If you are feeling like you are having tummy trouble, there are some foods that could help to ease your pain.

Foods That Help Soothe IBS

• Lean meats
• Eggs
• Salmon
• Low-FODMAP vegetables, fruits and greens
• Nuts

Are you having tummy trouble? Do you think it could be IBS or something else? Schedule an AFC TeleCare appointment with AFC Urgent Care Sevierville today.